Loads and weights

By the end of this topic you can

• You can find the plated weights on a truck and explain what they mean.
• You can explain why axle weight matters as well as total weight.
• You can describe how to spread a load and keep the centre of gravity low.
• You can choose and check suitable straps, chains or nets to secure a load.
• You can say who is responsible when a vehicle is overloaded.

What you need to know and understand

• Design gross vehicle weight (DGVW) is the most the vehicle may weigh fully loaded, as set by the maker and shown on its plate.
• Under the Construction and Use Regulations a single axle may generally carry up to 10 tonnes; a sole drive axle on twin tyres may carry more, up to 11.5 tonnes with air suspension.
• Rigid trucks with five or more axles registered from 1 February 2018 are capped at 36 tonnes.
• Every load must be packed, spread and fixed so that it does not endanger anyone or upset the vehicle's stability.
• No part of a load may be liable to fall onto the road or drag along it.
• Gardai say an overweight driver will in practice get penalty points and a fixed charge, while the owner can be summonsed to court.
• A load over the legal height, width, length or weight limits needs an abnormal load permit from the Gardai, the local authority or both.

Reading the plates: total weight and axle weight

Every truck carries a plate showing its design gross vehicle weight and the limit for each axle. Staying under the total is not enough. If most of the cargo sits at one end, a single axle can be overloaded while the truck as a whole is legal.

Overloading an axle damages the road and wears brakes and tyres, while too little weight on the front axle makes steering light. Each delivery shifts the balance, so think about axle weights at every drop.

If you are not sure of the weight, use a weighbridge. The RSA weights and dimensions leaflet sets out the limits for each type of vehicle and combination.

Loading so the truck stays stable

1. Check the plated weights and the delivery note before loading starts.
2. Place heavy items low and close to the centre line, spread along the bed rather than piled at one end.
3. Push the load up against the headboard or another solid barrier so it cannot slide forward under braking.
4. Secure it with straps, chains or nets in good condition and rated for the job. The RSA recommends equipment approved to the EN 12195 standards.
5. Walk round and check that nothing overhangs dangerously, nothing is loose and doors, tail lifts and sheets are closed and locked.
6. Stop and re-check the restraints after a short distance and after each drop, as loads settle.

Driving with a heavy or awkward load

A loaded truck needs far more distance to stop than an empty one. Leave a larger gap, brake early and gently, and take bends and roundabouts slowly, because a high load raises the centre of gravity and can tip the vehicle.

Part-full tankers can surge when you brake, so smooth inputs matter even more. Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg are limited to 80 km/h, even on a motorway. If you think the vehicle is overloaded, do not drive off; get it checked.

Common mistakes

• Checking only the total weight. An axle can be overloaded while the truck is under its gross weight.
• Piling heavy items high or at the rear. Keep weight low and spread along the bed.
• Using worn or frayed straps. Inspect every restraint before use and replace damaged ones.
• Assuming the loader is responsible. As the driver you can receive penalty points for an overweight vehicle.

Test yourself: Loads and weights

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.